Neural control of cerebral bloodflow: possible mechanism of scalp acupuncturein treating brain diseases
A great review on Scalp Acupuncture
A research team from the USA has published a review on the mechanisms of Scalp Acupuncture (SA). Scalp acupuncture, a modern acupuncture therapy, has been extensively used in the treatment of various brain diseases, such as stroke and headache. This therapy has accumulated a wealth of experience and numerous success cases. The review explores a novel perspective on the mechanisms of SA in treating brain diseases, focusing on its effects on cerebral blood flow (CBF).
To date, abundant evidence has shown that CBF is significantly increased by stimulating specific SA points, areas, or nerves innervating the scalp. This increase in CBF correlates with the immediate and long-term improvement of symptoms in brain diseases. Over time, the neural pathways that enhance CBF through the stimulation of the trigeminal, facial, and cervical nerves have been gradually elucidated. Additionally, the core SA points or areas frequently used for brain diseases can be rationally explained by the characteristics of nerve distribution, including nerve overlap or convergence in certain parts of the scalp.
Current evidence suggests that the efficacy of SA in treating brain diseases, particularly ischemic strokes, is primarily achieved by stimulating the scalp nerves, especially the trigeminal nerve, to improve CBF. While the mechanisms of SA in treating various brain diseases may be multifaceted, understanding the neural regulation of SA on CBF captures the main aspects of its therapeutic mechanisms. This understanding also facilitates the elucidation of other mechanisms, which may be of greater significance for further clinical applications.
Mechanism of Scalp Acupuncture in Chinese Medicine
The head (brain) is considered the house of Yuan Shen, or the primary Shen, in Chinese Medicine. All mental and neurological diseases, such as pain, stroke, dementia, Parkinson’s disease, depression, and insomnia, can be regarded as Shen disorders. All Yang channels and Yin channels connect to the brain directly or indirectly, making the brain the central hub of the entire meridian/channel network. In Chinese Medicine, the primary function of acupuncture is to move Qi and blood and regulate Shen. The stimulation of specific scalp points directly regulates Shen and the flow of Qi and blood, thereby restoring balance and promoting healing.
This holistic approach not only addresses the physical symptoms but also targets the underlying imbalances of Shen, Qi, and blood that contribute to brain diseases (Shen disorders). By integrating the principles of Chinese Medicine with modern neurophysiological insights, scalp acupuncture offers a comprehensive and effective treatment modality for brain diseases.
Reference
Jin, G., Jin, L.L., Jin, B.X., Zheng, J., He, B.J., & Li, S.J. (2023). Neural control of cerebral blood flow: scientific basis of scalp acupuncture in treating brain diseases. Frontiers in Neuroscience, 17.
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